The fence installation process involves many factors. You need to consider them all to ensure a successful installation. One of the foremost factors is your location. So, if you’re from St. Louis, Missouri, you need to know how it impacts the process.
Installing a new fence in St. Louis requires careful planning and consideration of the region’s unique climate and regulations. Understanding what to expect during the installation process helps homeowners prepare adequately and ensures a smooth project from start to finish.
Initial Consultation and Planning
The fence installation process begins with a professional consultation. A reputable St. Louis fence contractor will visit your property to assess the terrain, discuss your needs, and take precise measurements. During this phase, they’ll consider factors like property lines, underground utilities, and local zoning laws. St. Louis County and its municipalities have specific fence regulations regarding height, style, and placement, so your contractor should be well-versed in these requirements.
Permit Acquisition
Before any physical work begins, your contractor will need to obtain the necessary permits from your local municipality. In St. Louis, permit requirements vary by area – for instance, requirements in Chesterfield may differ from those in Clayton or Webster Groves. The permitting process typically takes 5-10 business days, though this can vary depending on your location and the complexity of the project.
Site Preparation and Utility Location
Once permits are secured, the contractor will schedule utility location services through the Missouri One Call System (Dig Rite). This mandatory step ensures all underground utilities are marked before digging begins. The service typically requires a 72-hour notice before work can commence. Your contractor will also clear the fence line of any obstacles, vegetation, or debris that could impede installation.
Weather Considerations
St. Louis’s variable weather patterns can impact the installation timeline. Spring’s frequent rainfall and winter’s freeze-thaw cycles can affect ground conditions and potentially delay installation. Most experienced contractors schedule installations during favorable weather conditions to ensure proper post setting and overall stability of the fence.
Installation Process
The actual installation typically follows these steps:
Post Hole Digging: In St. Louis, fence posts must be set below the frost line, which is typically 30 inches deep. This depth protects the fence from frost heave during harsh Midwest winters. Posts are usually spaced 6-8 feet apart, depending on the fence type and local terrain.
Post Setting: Posts are set in concrete, which needs 24-48 hours to cure properly. St. Louis’s humidity levels can affect curing time, so contractors often schedule their work accordingly. The posts must be perfectly plumb to ensure proper fence alignment.
Panel or Picket Installation: Once posts are secure, the contractor installs the main fence components. This could involve hanging prefabricated panels, installing individual pickets, or stringing wire, depending on your chosen fence style.
Hardware and Gate Installation: The final phase includes installing gates, latches, and any decorative elements. Gates require extra attention to ensure proper swing and alignment, considering St. Louis’s sloping terrain in many areas.
Timeline Expectations
A typical residential fence installation in St. Louis usually takes 2-3 days for average-sized properties, though several factors can influence this timeline:
- Property size and fence length
- Terrain challenges (common in hilly areas like Richmond Heights or Kirkwood)
- Soil conditions (clay-heavy soil, common in St. Louis, can impact digging)
- Weather delays
- Permit processing time
Post-Installation Considerations
After installation, your contractor should provide guidance on fence maintenance, considering St. Louis’s climate. This includes recommendations for:
- Seasonal maintenance to address moisture-related issues
- Wood treatment schedules (if applicable) to combat humidity
- Gate adjustment expectations as the ground settles
- Warranty information and service protocols
Quality Control
A reputable St. Louis fence contractor will conduct a thorough post-installation inspection to ensure:
- All posts are secure and properly aligned
- Gates swing freely and latch correctly
- The fence line follows property boundaries accurately
- All hardware is properly installed and secure
- The site is clean and free of construction debris
Final Steps
Upon completion, you’ll receive final documentation, including:
- Warranty information
- Maintenance guidelines
- Permit documentation
- Care instructions specific to your fence type and local climate conditions
Long-term Success
Understanding the installation process helps ensure your fence serves its purpose effectively for years to come. St. Louis’s varying weather conditions make proper installation crucial for longevity. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues will help protect your investment and maintain your property’s aesthetic appeal and security.
Choose a fence contractor who understands local conditions, follows proper installation procedures, and provides comprehensive support throughout the process. This attention to detail during installation will result in a fence that withstands St. Louis’s diverse weather conditions while meeting all local codes and regulations. To ensure that you get all that, call us at GreenScapeSTL, the premier contractor for fence installation in St. Louis, MO. To learn more about us and our services, please contact us to know how we can help you.